Former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand has spoken about his family's relocation to Dubai, where his wife Kate Wright is reportedly planning to return to the UK due to homesickness. The couple, along with their five children, moved from London to the Gulf state last summer, but were forced to temporarily flee earlier this year after Iranian missile strikes in the region.
Speaking to The Times, Ferdinand, 47, said his children are thriving in Dubai. 'My kids are having a real-life adventure. My eldest daughter is 14. She loves that she’s got a bit more freedom here than she would have had in London. My five-year-old boy likes that he gets to play more football,' he explained. The family, which includes children from Ferdinand's first marriage to the late Rebecca Ellison, has embraced the outdoor lifestyle.
However, Kate, 34, has struggled with the move. In February, she broke down in tears on her podcast, saying: 'I am enjoying it, but I miss home quite a lot. I can’t talk about it because I get upset.' An insider told Heat magazine that while Rio is thrilled to be back in Dubai, Kate is 'putting on a brave face' and remains scared despite his assurances of safety. She is expected to head back to the UK for the summer and may also spend time in Portugal while Rio works in the US during the World Cup.
Ferdinand, a six-time Premier League winner, left his punditry role with TNT Sports in summer 2025 to focus on his personal life and YouTube channel. He plans to attend the 2026 World Cup as a fan, staying in an Airbnb with friends. 'This World Cup is the first time I am going to a tournament as a fan. I’m looking forward to being able to take it in,' he told The Times.
